Installing ceiling speakers costs on average around $1,700 depending on your design and total number of speakers.
Ceiling speaker installation cost ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 or $1,700 on average. The beauty of ceiling speakers is that they can be installed in any room of your home—living room, kitchen, even the bathroom. But, keep in mind it comes with a cost. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 for a standard setup. Learn more with this guide to help you determine the right price to fit your budget.
When it comes to installing ceiling speakers in your home or as part of your home theater installation, several factors can determine the outcome of the overall cost.
Generally, ceiling speakers fall into one of two designs—integrated or mounted—which can factor into the price you’ll pay for an installation. Integrated ceiling speakers are placed within the ceiling, hidden from view. However, to install integrated ceiling speakers, cutouts need to be made, which can add $20 to $30 per speaker if installed by a professional.
Mounted ceiling speakers are typically less expensive to install because they are placed on a bracket or shelf mounted to the ceiling. While they’re an ideal option if you’re looking to cut down on costs, they’re visible and may not complement your room’s decor.
Often, the number of speakers you need correlates to the size of your room. It also depends on how many rooms you want to install ceiling speakers in. For a home theater installation, you will likely need multiple speakers to achieve surround sound.
Most ceiling speakers are sold in pairs as a left and right speaker stereo configuration. Spacing also needs to be considered to get the most out of their sound quality. Most audio installation experts agree that ceiling speakers should be spaced evenly along the length of the room, at least six feet from each other. If space doesn’t allow for it, consider placing a single stereo speaker in the middle of the room’s ceiling.
| Number of Speakers | Cost of Speakers | Install Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | $160–$1,000 | 2–3 hours |
| 6 | $240–$1,500 | 3–4½ hours |
| 8 | $320–$2,000 | 4–6 hours |
| 10 | $400–$2,500 | 5–7½ hours |
Depending on the type of ceiling speakers, where you put them, and your DIY skills, it’s entirely possible to install ceiling speakers yourself. However, things like wiring issues or difficult room layouts may lead you to hire a local home speaker installation professional instead. If you’re planning on using mounted speakers, it shouldn’t take more than a few hours for a pro to mount and connect them. Integrated ceiling speakers that require cutting out the ceiling and running wires through walls will take longer and, therefore, cost more.
It’s important to note that if you hire a contractor to install your ceiling speakers, they might bring in an electrician and several installation technicians, depending on the size of the job. This will likely increase the overall cost.
| Labor Costs | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Low | $50 |
| Medium | $80 |
| High | $100 |
Just like any electrical appliance in your home, there will be a few ongoing expenses associated with operating your ceiling speakers once they’ve been installed.
You may find that the sound quality of your ceiling speakers diminishes over time, or perhaps they need adjusting after they were installed. If this is the case, you may be looking at repairs or replacing your ceiling speakers. Mounted ceiling speakers are easier to remove from brackets and shelves, whereas integrated ceiling speakers will require more labor to get them out of the ceiling.
It’s a good idea to include your ceiling speakers as part of your home insurance once you have them installed. This should help cover the costs of repairs or replacement in case of damage to the ceiling or house due to fire or any other unforeseen event. A relevant insurance policy is also handy to have during the installation of your ceiling speakers. This will not only protect you but also the audio installer in case of accidental damage to your walls or ceiling.
If you’re a confident DIYer and want to flex your skills, installing ceiling speakers yourself will significantly cut down on your expenses. Out-of-the-box ceiling speakers can cost as low as $40 for budget-friendly models or up to $500 for top-of-the-line brands. Additionally, you’ll need tools and supplies such as screwdrivers, a drill, electrical tape, wire strippers, and a ladder.
However, many homeowners find it easier to have a qualified audio installer handle the task, especially if they’re uncomfortable with dealing with wiring or want peace of mind knowing that their ceiling speakers are installed correctly the first time.
Aside from the ceiling speakers themselves, there are a few other things that are required during an installation:
Amplifier: Most in-ceiling speakers are known as “passive” speakers, meaning they do not include a built-in amplifier. An amplifier is essential because it translates the audio signal received from your media and translates it into audible sound and costs between $300 to $800 on average.
Receiver: Generally, ceiling speakers included as part of a surround sound installation will require a receiver. Receivers cost anywhere from $600 to $2,500.
Brackets: If you’re installing mountable ceiling speakers, you will need brackets. These cost from $10 to $30 apiece.
In-wall wiring: If you want your wires hidden, expect to pay between $35 and $75 for each length of in-wall wiring.
Back boxes: Unlike traditional bookshelf speakers, ceiling speakers do not have a back box that helps improve sound quality and prevent sound leakage. Back boxes cost from $30 to $50 each.
Besides DIYing your ceiling speaker installation, one way you can save money is to look at less expensive speaker brands. There are several quality speakers available on the market to choose from to suit all budgets. Also, consider using ceiling speakers with Bluetooth capabilities to cut down on wiring costs.
If you plan to install speakers in multiple rooms, ask about bulk purchases or bundle deals. Some retailers offer discounts on packages of six speakers or more.
Finally, if you’re looking for audio installers to do the job for you, it doesn’t hurt to shop around. Select the top three in your area and compare their rates to find the best option for your wallet.
There are several things to consider when choosing the right surround sound speakers or ceiling speakers. Sound quality, sensitivity rating (how well they work with an amplifier), and customizable settings to get the most out of your sound are all important factors when selecting speakers.
Consider where the speakers will be placed and whether they match the room’s aesthetic. If you’re opting for mountable speakers for your living room, choose a unit design with brackets that will blend seamlessly with your room’s furnishings. If your living space decor is modern and minimalist, maintain an invisible look with integrated ceiling speakers.
To determine which size of ceiling speakers is best for your room, consider the room’s size, ceiling height, and how powerful your speakers are. Generally, larger rooms require speakers that are between eight and 10 inches in size. Smaller rooms have less of an area for sound to travel, so speakers that are six to seven inches will be sufficient.
